2 City of Atlanta Officers killed in helicopter crash.

The two officers were assisting with a missing child search when their airship crashed last night at Martin Luthur King Dr and Hamilton E Holmes Dr just before 11pm. These are the 2nd and 3rd LODD for APD this year. SPO Gail Thomas was struck and killed by a suspected drunk driver on I-75 on January 24th.

Halford, of Lithia Springs, joined the APD in May 1986. He had been with the air unit for more than 16 years, serving as a pilot. Halford also has served in APD’s Zone 4 precinct, the motors and DUI units. He is survived by his former wife, and a 21-year-old daughter

Smiley, of Lithonia, joined the APD in October 2010. He joined the air unit earlier this year, serving as a tactical flight officer. He also served in the Department’s Zone 2 precinct. He is survived by his wife and three children, ages 5, 7, and 9.

This was a huge loss to our city. RIP gentlemen.

Officer Halford's funeral is happening right now at Jackson Memorial Baptist Church (Fairburn Road), and officer Smiley's will take place at 11am tomorrow at First Baptist Church of Atlanta
(4400 North Peachtree Road).